Fetal valproate syndrome
Fetal Valproate Syndrome
Fetal valproate syndrome (pronounced: fee-tal val-pro-ate sin-drome), also known as Fetal anticonvulsant syndrome or Fetal hydantoin syndrome, is a condition that affects infants who are exposed to the anticonvulsant drug valproate during pregnancy.
Etymology
The term "Fetal valproate syndrome" is derived from the drug Valproate (pronounced: val-pro-ate), which is used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder, and the word "fetal", referring to the fetus during pregnancy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Fetal valproate syndrome can vary widely, but may include physical abnormalities, developmental delay, and learning disabilities. Physical abnormalities can include craniofacial abnormalities, cardiac defects, and neural tube defects.
Causes
Fetal valproate syndrome is caused by exposure to the drug valproate during pregnancy. Valproate can cross the placenta, and can therefore affect the developing fetus. The risk of Fetal valproate syndrome is highest when valproate is taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Fetal valproate syndrome is based on the presence of characteristic physical abnormalities, a history of exposure to valproate during pregnancy, and the exclusion of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for Fetal valproate syndrome is symptomatic and supportive. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for developmental delays, and surgery for physical abnormalities.
Related Terms
- Anticonvulsant
- Epilepsy
- Bipolar disorder
- Placenta
- First trimester
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fetal valproate syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Fetal valproate syndrome
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